I’m looking to buy a worthy router for my next project and many future projects. For this particular project I will need to make some doors using panel bits etc. I have been eyeballing the Dewalt 618PK which seems to be a go to router for many people. I also like the idea of getting a little more HP with something like the Porter Cable 890. Any suggestions. I have no problems getting used tools for cheaper. My budget is probably around $175-$225.

I’d take a good look at the Triton routers. They are also excellent for under the table as they have above the table bit changing and height adjustment. The 3hp model is at the top end of your budget but worth a look if you are planning on doing a lot of panel raising. Otherwise, the 2-1/4 hp model is on sale at several stores for $170.

My first router was the Hitachi kit – often on sale at Amazon for between $100 and $125 (M12VC). It’s an awesome value among the 2-1/4 hp fixed/plunge kits.

-- Optimists are usually disappointed. Pessimists are either right or pleasantly surprised. I tend to be a disappointed pessimist.

All of the above sound good except for the Craftsman. I have a couple Craftsman routers and the height adjustment on the newer ones don’t last very long. They pretty much just take up space on a shelve because I don’t use them. I always reach for my Dewalt DW618 which is 2 1/4 hp. You can get it with the fixed and plunge base at amazon for 179.55 with free shipping right now. I would probably want more hp if I were making raised panels all the time but it does ok for doing them every so often.

@cr1—I agree about Festool. In todays market as competitive as it is, I would think they would lower their prices some. I personnelly cannot justify the cost even though I can well afford them.

I have a Makita R1100 in my router table. It has served me quite well for 6 years and hopefully another six. Butwhen it goes I will look strongly at the Tritons.(I have 4 other routers of various brands). Tritons seem to be priced right and get very good reviews on here.

wow thanks for the great recommendations. I think I’m sold on the Triton 2-1/4. The ability to raise up and down while mounted under the table is a serious plus! You guys sure it will handle 2-1/2” to 3-1/2” panel bits? I guess I could always do a series of passes to go easy?

I’ve got the Triton 3+, the Freud 3+, the PC690, and a few others. For under the table, I’m very happy with the Triton; it’s a handful over the table and has it’s quality issues there. The Freud is great over the table but it’s a big router. The PC690 is a joy over the table, especially with a clear base.

Be sure to take the plunge spring out of the Triton when under the table. BE CAREFUL WHEN YOU TAKE IT OUT. It’s about a 1 foot spring in a 4 inch housing. It’ll blast out at you like a jack in the box. I think you’re making a solid choice but be warned that some of the parts are a bit flimsy.

-- My dad and I built a 65 chev pick up.I killed trannys in that thing for some reason-Hog

Above table bit changes are a huge convenience that few routers offer…AFAIK, only the two top Freuds and Tritons have the full compliment of features that allow easy one handed topside bit changes, height adjust, and height lock/unlock. I’ve got an excellent 15 amp Milwaukee 5625 for my router table, but my smaller 13 amp Freud FT1700 is in there most of the time due to the topside features.

-- Happiness is like wetting your pants...everyone can see it, but only you can feel the warmth....

I think the Milwaukee is a great choice. I was looking at it when the Freud showed up for a song. The cost of a router raiser should factor in for anyone contemplating a new under the table job. I know it did for me.

-- My dad and I built a 65 chev pick up.I killed trannys in that thing for some reason-Hog